Expansion

1. The operation of steam in a cylinder after its communication with the boiler has been cut off, by which it continues to exert pressure upon the moving piston.
2. Space through which anything is expanded; also, pure space.
3. The developed result of an indicated operation; as, the expansion of (a + b)2 is a2 + 2ab + b2.
4. The enlargement of the ship mathematically from a model or drawing to the full or building size, in the process of construction.
5. That which is expanded; expanse; extend surface; as, the expansion of a sheet or of a lake; the expansion was formed of metal.
6. The act of expanding or spreading out; the condition of being expanded; dilation; enlargement.
7. Enlargement or extension of business transactions; esp., increase of the circulation of bank notes.